Medicine and Surgery
University of Bologna, Italy
Single Cycle Degree in Medicine and Surgery
University of Bologna (Alma Mater Studiorum)
Medicine and Surgery
Program Overview: Medicine and Surgery at the University of Bologna
The Single Cycle Degree in Medicine and Surgery at the University of Bologna trains students to become fully qualified medical doctors through a comprehensive six-year program taught entirely in English. Founded in 1088, the University of Bologna is widely recognized as the oldest university in the western world, and its Medical School carries a long tradition of excellence in teaching and research.
Students develop a comprehensive vision of medicine by incorporating health promotion, disease prevention, treatment, and rehabilitation into their practice within an international context. The program uses a problem-based, multidisciplinary, and patient-oriented learning approach, with integrated clinical clerkships beginning from Year 1 at the affiliated Sant'Orsola Hospital.
The use of English as the official language facilitates access to international medical literature, conferences, and collaborative opportunities worldwide. Graduates are well prepared to pursue medical specialization programs, PhD research, or clinical practice in Italy and internationally, with degrees aligned to the European LM-41 classification.
Key Program Highlights
- Integrated curriculum with clinical clerkships starting from Year 1, totaling approximately 1,020 hours of internship across the program
- Problem-based learning approach that is multidisciplinary and patient-centered, with a strong focus on medical humanities
- Taught entirely in English at the oldest university in the western world, fostering a multicultural student community with over 50% international students
- Clinical training at renowned hospitals including Sant'Orsola Hospital, Ospedale Maggiore, Ospedale Bellaria, and the Rizzoli Orthopaedic Institute
Curriculum and Modules
The Medicine and Surgery curriculum spans six years (12 semesters) and awards 360 ECTS credits, of which 64 are dedicated to clinical internships. The program is structured into three biennial phases: foundational sciences, pathological and clinical sciences, and advanced clinical practice. Attendance is mandatory, with a minimum requirement of 60% of lessons to be admitted to the final exam.
Cellular Molecular Biology and Genetics
Integrated Course — Year 1Covers the fundamentals of cell biology, molecular genetics, and hereditary mechanisms. Students gain a deep understanding of how genes regulate cellular processes and contribute to health and disease.
Human Anatomy and Histology
Integrated Course — Years 1-2Provides comprehensive study of the macro and microscopic structure of the human body, including tissues, organs, and systems. Includes dissecting room activities for hands-on anatomical learning.
Physiology and Biochemistry
Integrated Course — Years 1-2Explores the chemical processes of living organisms and the functional mechanisms of human organ systems. Laboratory sessions reinforce theoretical knowledge with practical biochemistry techniques.
General Pathology and Pathological Anatomy
Integrated Course — Years 3-4Focuses on the pathological anatomy of organs and systems, disease mechanisms, and the body's response to injury. Students learn clinical approaches to pathology and diagnostic reasoning.
Clinical Medicine and Surgery
Integrated Course — Years 4-6Covers clinical issues in general medicine, surgery, obstetrics and gynecology, pediatrics, and emergency medicine. This biennial program constitutes the largest share of the curriculum with extensive hospital-based training.
Medical Specialties and Public Health
Integrated Course — Years 5-6Addresses advanced topics including medical oncology, legal medicine, psychiatry, community medicine, and medical-surgical emergencies. Prepares students for independent clinical practice and specialization.
Elective and Complementary Modules
Admission Requirements
Admission to the Medicine and Surgery program is competitive and based on a national entrance examination. Places are limited each year as determined by the Italian Ministry of Education in agreement with the Regions and the National Health Service. Contact Uni4Edu for guidance on preparing your application and navigating the admissions process.
Academic Requirements
- Secondary School DiplomaApplicants must hold a secondary school diploma from a five-year secondary school program or an equivalent qualification representing at least 12 years of education
- Entrance ExaminationCandidates must pass a national admission test consisting of 60 multiple-choice questions covering logical reasoning, biology, chemistry, physics, and mathematics (100 minutes duration)
- Additional Learning RequirementsStudents must demonstrate basic knowledge of chemistry, biochemistry, cellular molecular biology, genetics, and medical physics; those admitted with gaps must complete supplementary activities in Year 1
- Available SeatsContact Uni4Edu for current data on available seats for EU and non-EU applicants, as numbers are set annually by the Italian Ministry of Education
- Italian Language (for Clinical Clerkships)A B1 level or higher of Italian is required to access clinical clerkships; Italian language courses are offered during Year 1 to help students meet this requirement
Language Requirements
- English ProficiencyB2 level or higher, assessed through the admission test; formal English certificates are not mandatory but may be used as a tiebreaker
- Italian ProficiencyB1 level required for clinical clerkships; university-provided Italian language courses available from Year 1
- Language of InstructionAll lectures, exams, and academic materials are delivered in English throughout the six-year program
Required Documents
For personalized admission guidance, document verification, and application support, please contact Uni4Edu
Scholarships and Funding
The University of Bologna and the Emilia-Romagna Region offer several financial support opportunities for international students studying Medicine and Surgery. From merit-based scholarships to income-based fee reductions, there are multiple avenues to help fund your medical education in Italy.
International Talents @Unibo Scholarship
Scholarships for deserving international students holding academic qualifications from non-Italian education systems. These awards may include tuition fee exemptions and are available for students enrolling in single-cycle degree programs.
For detailed tuition fee information, please contact Uni4Edu — we will guide you through the costs and available funding options for this program.
Career Prospects
Graduates of the Medicine and Surgery program at the University of Bologna are qualified to pursue medical specialization programs in clinical and surgical specialties, as well as careers in health services, general practice, research, and public health. The international approach of the program and globally recognized Italian medical degrees expand career opportunities across Europe and worldwide.
Potential Career Roles
Typical Employers and Settings
Rankings and Recognition
The University of Bologna is one of the most highly ranked universities in Italy and consistently places among the top institutions globally. As the oldest university in the western world, founded in 1088, it combines centuries of academic tradition with modern research excellence across multiple disciplines including medicine.
| Subject | Ranking Body | Rank |
|---|---|---|
| Medicine | QS World University Rankings by Subject | #87 |
| Clinical Medicine | US News Best Global Universities by Subject | #108 |
| Clinical and Health | THE World University Rankings by Subject | Top 200 |
| Overall in Italy | THE World University Rankings | #1 |
How to Apply
Applying for this program is easy with Uni4Edu. Our team will guide you through every step of the process — from document preparation to final enrolment.
Contact Uni4Edu
Reach out to our team via email or phone. We will assess your profile and confirm your eligibility for this program.
Prepare Your Documents
Our advisors will provide you with a personalised checklist of required documents and help you prepare your application package.
Submit Your Application
Uni4Edu will submit your application on your behalf and keep you updated on its progress throughout the review period.
Receive Your Offer
Once accepted, we will help you understand your offer, arrange visa support if needed, and guide you through the enrolment process.
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